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Since the 1990s alcohol consumption and drug misuse levels has increased enormously in the state of Haryana. This has been accompanied by a disturbing increase in drug and alcohol related problems, including those involving young people. A preliminary study by the Haryana Health Department showed that more than 45 percent of those aged 15-25 were addicts. Since the 1990s alcohol consumption and drug misuse levels has increased enormously in the state of Haryana. This has been accompanied by a disturbing increase in drug and alcohol related problems, including those involving young people. A preliminary study by the Haryana Health Department showed that more than 45 percent of those aged 15-25 were addicts. A survey by the Institute for Development and Communication (IDC) found over 65 percent of households are affected by alcohol abuse (IDC 2003). Over two third of the victims were regular alcohol users and 26 percent illicit drug users. 19 percent reported that alcohol and drug abuse was an important cause of suicide by farmers. This is not unexpected in light of the often dramatic reporting of alcohol and drug misuse by the media, and of public anxiety in the face of evidence of increasing availability and misuse of alcohol and drugs. The recent articles in The Tribune have raised concern and fear that the consumption of alcohol and other drugs is becoming a serious problem in Haryana. Some consultant psychiatrist in Haryana writes in The Tribune that alcohol consumption has risen considerably over the past couple of years. There is hardly any social function where alcohol is not served. The per capita alcohol consumption in Haryana is considered as second state in Haryana. Use of illegal drugs is also increasing among teenagers and use of smack and alcohol in high schools is increasing at an alarming rate. Even Haryana teenagers are seen celebrating various occasions with beer and champagne. Young people are regarded as vulnerable by the print media in Haryana. Their alcohol and drug misuse have become the focus of public concern.
Keywords: drugs addiction, alcohol use
Alcohol misuse or alcohol-related problems encompass a wide range of adverse consequences, somehow connected with the inappropriate or deleterious use of alcohol. These problems may be due to prolonged heavy drinking and involve...